After the initial infection, symptoms of herpes genitalis usually lasts 14 to 21 days. Additional episodes are usually more mild and last for 7 to 10 days.

Symptoms in males with herpes genitalis include:

• Genital sores or anal sores:
• Blisters on the penis, scrotum or anus
• Ulcer on the penis, scrotum or anus
• Discharge from the penis:
• Mucus draining from the penis

Physical findings in females with herpes genitalis include:

• Genital sores or anal sores:
• Blisters on the vagina, vulva or anus
• Ulcer on the vagina, vulva or anus
• Vaginal discharge:
• Mucus draining from the vagina

Additional symptoms in males and females include:

• Fever
• Headache
• Muscle aches
• Pain during urination
• Swollen glands in the groin